The Ultimate Family Vacation Guide to Maine
Just a short drive north from Portland, along the rocky coast of southern Maine, lies the charming town of Kennebunkport. Here, families can explore the scenic Marginal Way, a well-maintained 1.25-mile cliffside walking path that offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. This easy and stroller-friendly trail meanders past rocky outcroppings, quaint beaches, and beautifully landscaped gardens, ending near the historic Kennebunkport Harbor. What makes Marginal Way special is its uninterrupted ocean vistas paired with the town’s classic New England charm. The path is especially magical in late spring and early summer when wildflowers bloom alongside the walkway, and the salty breeze is fresh and invigorating.
Further up the coast, about two hours northeast of Portland, Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor invites families to immerse themselves in rugged natural beauty. The park’s Jordan Pond Trail is a perfect family-friendly hike, a flat, 3.3-mile loop circling the crystal-clear pond with views of the towering Bubbles mountains. Along the way, kids love spotting ripples from local loons and scenic picnic spots where families can enjoy a packed lunch. Acadia’s diverse landscape, from woodlands to rocky shores, sets it apart from other national parks, offering unforgettable experiences like tide pooling at low tide along the park’s coastline. Visiting in early fall reveals an explosion of vibrant foliage, making the scenery even more breathtaking.
Inland, about an hour’s drive northwest of Portland, the town of Bridgton is nestled in the Lakes Region and is home to the Maine Lakes Museum. This small but engaging museum tells the story of Maine’s many lakes, including Sebago Lake, the state’s deepest and second-largest. Families can explore hands-on exhibits about local wildlife, fishing traditions, and the geology that shaped the region’s clear waters. Bridgton’s proximity to the lake itself offers opportunities for swimming, canoeing, and even seeing bald eagles, making it a unique spot where educational experiences blend seamlessly with outdoor adventures. Summer is ideal for visiting when the water is warm and the museum hosts interactive programs for kids.
Heading even further north, about three hours from Portland, the town of Rangeley is a gateway to the western Maine wilderness. The Rangeley Lake State Park offers families a chance to hike the gentle trails around pristine Rangeley Lake. The park’s Nature Trail is a short, easy loop perfect for young children, showcasing local flora and fauna with interpretive signs along the way. What distinguishes Rangeley Lake is its crystal-clear waters and the chance to spot moose, one of Maine’s iconic animals, in the surrounding forest. Early autumn is a prime time to visit when the fall colors reflect vividly off the lake’s surface, creating postcard-perfect views.
On the coast near Camden, about 90 minutes northeast of Portland, Camden Hills State Park offers spectacular views from Mount Battie, a 780-foot summit overlooking Penobscot Bay. The short but steep Mount Battie Trail rewards families with a panoramic vista that stretches over the harbor’s working waterfront and the islands beyond. This spot is beloved for combining natural beauty with the charm of a bustling coastal town below. In summer, the park buzzes with family picnics and kayaking activities, while autumn brings cool, crisp air and brilliant foliage. The accessible summit lookout makes it an ideal destination for all ages to appreciate Maine’s coastal grandeur.
Down east, near Ellsworth and about 30 minutes from Bar Harbor, the Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia National Park offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to the main island. Families can take the easy Schoodic Head Trail, a 1.3-mile loop with breathtaking views of the rocky coastline and the Atlantic’s pounding surf. Schoodic’s rugged granite shorelines and dense spruce forests provide a distinctly different coastal landscape than Acadia’s main island, appealing to those looking for tranquility and wildlife spotting, especially seals and seabirds. Visiting in late spring allows families to experience the peninsula’s wildflowers and the return of migratory birds.
Finally, in the heart of Portland itself, the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine serves as a perfect urban stop for families after exploring the outdoors. Located just minutes from the Old Port district, this engaging museum features interactive exhibits that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and play. From a kid-sized town to science experiments, the museum offers indoor fun that complements Maine’s outdoor adventures. On rainy days or during colder months, it becomes an essential destination to keep young minds entertained and learning. Its location near Portland’s vibrant waterfront also allows families to enjoy fresh seafood or stroll along the harbor after a day of discovery.
With its compelling blend of coastal charm, wilderness adventures, and family-friendly cultural experiences, Maine reveals itself as a destination where every day offers a new story for kids and parents alike. From ocean cliffs to mountain trails, quiet lakes to lively museums, each place invites families to explore, learn, and create memories that last long after the trip ends.